A group of Republican U.S. lawmakers has written to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert asking the league to provide “greater accountability” and better protection for Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, citing what they describe as repeated on-court “attacks” or physical hostility toward her. Multiple outlets report that at least 11 Republicans signed onto the letter, including House Republican Study Committee leadership led by Chair August Pfluger of Texas. The lawmakers say the WNBA should take additional steps to investigate and address Clark’s treatment in games, including concerns about hard fouls and physical play that they characterize as unnecessary or potentially abusive. One account also notes the letter points to the possibility of federal action, while others focus on league investigation and oversight. The coverage references a recent incident involving Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas, who hit Clark in the throat; the WNBA suspended Thomas for one game. The Guardian reports that Thomas and her family received racist abuse and death threats after that incident, and that lawmakers also seek protection in light of concerns about possible racially motivated attacks.